Will Drano® Products Harm My Pipes?

Q: A friend told me that Drano® products could damage my plastic pipes. Is this true?

A: Rest assured: laboratory tests confirm that Drano® is safe for all types of pipes and plumbing fixtures!

This is actually a common question we receive, so we’d love to clear things up. Our products are powerful enough to dissolve those nasty clogs, but they will not harm your plastic or metal pipes, so there’s no need to worry. Additionally, Drano® products are safe for septic systems and will not harm the bacterial action that occurs in septic systems.

In fact, Drano® Max Gel contains a special ingredient that prevents pipe corrosion and “Safe for all pipes, septic systems and cesspools” is printed on the product packaging of all our products.

Be aware, however, there are other drain openers on the market that could cause damage. We recommend avoiding acidic chemical cleaners that contain sulfuric acid or hydrochloric acid.

Hydrochloric acid can damage porcelain, metal and almost any other material when used incorrectly. Sulfuric acid is slightly less damaging to metal plumbing but can still damage aluminum, stainless steel and porcelain. These chemical cleaners should be used as a last result and by a professional. To keep your pipes safe when you’re using a drain opener, we recommend sticking with Drano®.

2 Comments

Leah F.Oct 23, 2010 10:46 PM

I used drano in my bathtub, a lot for a big clog. We went on vacation & for the life of me I can't remember if I rinsed it with water. Now over a week later I am terrified that I damaged the pipes if it was sitting in there for so long! Please help with your advice
thank you

Drano Team ..Nov 4, 2010 2:14 PM

No need to worry! Drano is formulated safe for all pipes and septic systems, so it won’t damage your pipes – even if you leave it there for a week!

Welcome!

Here at Drano® Clog Talk™, we've enlisted the help of our experts in order to take on the drain-related topics you've always wanted to know more about. Join us as we add new posts on a regular basis. We'll help you solve your drain-care challenges and keep you one step ahead of the plumber.